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Aromatherapy for Teenagers
By Francoise Rapp
Published March 2002

Adolescence is one of the most difficult stages of our lives. During this dynamic period, we not only encounter awkward physical changes -- such as skin problems and weight issues -- but we also see a rise in the expectations we face from family and society, which brings emotional conflict. In fact, one-third of American teens claim they suffer daily from stress-related issues, including sleep deprivation, anxiety and depression. The other two-thirds say they feel stress-related symptoms at least once a week.

Teenagers in general have a tendency to shut down their emotions as a method of coping with the influx of change in their lives. They may also become irritable, angry, provocative, or resort to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism. This stage is also extremely difficult on the parents, who must also come to terms with their teens, who are no longer children.

The following aromatic recipes can be used to help teens better cope with the emotional and physical stress they face. 

To create these custom aromatic blends, add the essential oils in a 10-oz bottle and then add organic vegetable oil to fill.

Aiding Communication

This blend is effective for teens who shut down their communication by isolating themselves in their own world. It will help them better express their desires and emotions.

• 3 drops Sage 
  
• 4 drops Lavender
  
• 2 drops German Chamomile

Massage the neck and shoulders. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.

Accepting One's Identity

This blend reconnects the body and spirit, helping teens create an awareness of their purpose and identity. It helps soothe the transition toward adulthood by encouraging the teen along the right path.

• 4 drops Sandalwood
  
• 3 drops Frankincense
  
• 2 drops Jasmine otto

Massage the heart chakra and solar plexus. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.

Depression

This blend can help teens open themselves to positive opportunities and attitudes. It will bring more joy into their lives.

• 3 drops Ylang Ylang
  
• 4 drops Orange
  
• 4 drops Grapefruit

Massage the solar plexus. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.

Panic Attacks

This blend soothes and calms fear-related issues or sudden bouts with panic. 

• 2 drops Roman Chamomile
  
• 1 drop Rose otto

Massage the heart chakra and solar plexus. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.

Sleep Disorders

This blend brings a deep sense of calm. It can help teens process emotions during sleep. It stops the chatting mind that may impede healthy sleep patterns.

• 2 drops Roman Chamomile
  
• 4 drops Petitgrain
  
• 4 drops Basil

Massage the neck, shoulders, temples and forehead. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.

Skin problems

This recipe will purify, soothe and regenerate the skin. 

• 3 drops Lavender
  
• 3 drops Geranium
  
• 1 drop Rosemary

Massage the face thoroughly with this blend. You can also incorporate the blend into an unscented moisturizer or clay mask.

Escaping

This blend allows more grounding, inner strength and stability. It helps teens face their issues while turning them into positive lessons. It also enhances courage and faith.

• 4 drops Cedarwood
  
• 3 drops Cypress
  
• 3 drops Rosemary

Massage the sacrum and solar plexus. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply. 

Anger-Related Symptoms

This blend soothes the heart and soul when the teen expresses anger toward others as well as himself. 

• 4 drops Marjoram
  
• 1 drop Rose
  
• 1 drop Jasmine otto

Massage the heart chakra, sacrum and solar plexus. Pour up to 20 drops of the blend into your warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes. Pour a few drops into the palm of your hands and inhale deeply.

In Good Health, 
Francoise Rapp 

To learn more about the essential oils in these blends, visit http://www.aromalchemy.com/aromatherapy.ouroils.html

http://www.aromalcherry.com

(c) Francoise Rapp, 2002. 

Discover the life-transforming power of aromatherapy! Internationally renowned aromatherapist and alchemist, Francoise Rapp, shares her expertise through aromatherapy classes designed for working adults and in her free weekly ezine, The Arom'Alchemy Newsletter. All this and more can be found at www.aromalchemy.com

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